Errachidia is a charming city located in the southeastern part of Morocco, known as a gateway to the Sahara Desert. Positioned in the heart of the Drâa-Tafilalet region, it serves as a strategic stopover for travelers heading toward the famous sand dunes of Merzouga and the surrounding desert landscapes. Errachidia has a rich history, with influences from Berber culture, and is surrounded by beautiful valleys, palm groves, and rugged mountain terrain, offering a unique blend of Moroccan tradition and natural beauty.
Our Desert Tours from Errachidia to Merzouga will still let you enjoy your Sahara desert experience, travel through the beautiful Ziz Valley, known for its lush date palm groves and striking contrast with the arid desert surroundings. The valley is a perfect place to stop and admire the view of the vast palm plantations along the Ziz River.
The highlights of the tour from Errachidia to Merzouga desert.
1. Ziz Valley: As you leave Errachidia, you’ll travel through the beautiful Ziz Valley, known for its lush date palm groves and striking contrast with the arid desert surroundings. The valley is a perfect place to stop and admire the view of the vast palm plantations along the Ziz River.
2. Tafilalt Oasis: The Tafilalt Oasis, one of the largest in Morocco, stretches over 20 kilometers. It is a beautiful green expanse in the midst of the Sahara, home to hundreds of thousands of date palms, and offers a stark contrast to the surrounding desert.
3. Rissani: Before reaching Merzouga, you’ll pass through Rissani, an ancient town known for its traditional souks and as the birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty. Rissani has a historic kasbah and is an important stop for those exploring the southern Morocco desert.
4. Merzouga and Erg Chebbi Dunes: The journey culminates at Merzouga, where you’ll be treated to the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes. The dunes are perfect for activities like camel treks, sandboarding, and stargazing. Visitors can also spend a night in a traditional desert camp, experiencing Berber hospitality, music, and a magical desert sunset.
Activities to do in Merzouga desert:
Camel Trekking: A camel ride into the dunes is the most iconic way to explore the desert landscape. This experience typically includes a sunset or sunrise ride, where you can marvel at the shifting sand dunes and experience the tranquility of the desert.
4×4 Desert Safari: For those who prefer a more comfortable and faster mode of travel, a 4×4 desert safari is a great way to explore the dunes and surrounding areas. These tours can take you to remote corners of the desert, including abandoned kasbahs, nomadic camps, and more.
Sandboarding: For the adventurous traveler, sandboarding on the giant dunes of Erg Chebbi is an exciting and fun way to enjoy the desert’s sandy slopes.
Stargazing: Merzouga offers some of the clearest skies in Morocco, making it a prime location for stargazing. Many desert camps offer guided stargazing sessions to help you learn about the constellations and enjoy the beauty of the night sky.
Overnight in Desert Camps: Spending a night in a Berber-style tent under the stars is a must-do experience in the Merzouga desert. Many camps offer comfortable amenities, traditional meals, and entertainment such as music around a campfire.
Best Time to Visit Merzouga desert
The ideal time to take a tour from Errachidia to Merzouga is between *March and May, or September and November, when the weather is pleasant and not too hot. The summer months (June to August) can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F), so it’s best to avoid the desert during peak summer heat.
Errachidia is a perfect starting point for a desert adventure, offering easy access to Merzouga and the majestic Erg Chebbi dunes. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful camel trek, an adrenaline-filled desert safari, or a relaxing night under the stars in a desert camp, a tour from Errachidia to Merzouga provides a truly unforgettable Moroccan experience.
